Generic ussd centre for network applications and services

ABSTRACT

The invention relates to a digital telecommunication system for the access, navigation, and use of digital applications and services, referred to as a USSD CENTRE ( 14 ), that comprises at least one server for applications and services module ( 16 ), at least one access gateway module ( 17 ), at least one network gateway module ( 18 ), at least one integration gateway module ( 15 ) and at least one database and profiling module ( 19 ). The server for applications and services module ( 16 ), referred to as a Browser ( 16 ), is based on at least one USSD telecommunication protocol and on at least one VXML language interpreter ( 21 ). The USSD CENTER ( 14 ) further includes charging, billing, proxy, routing, observation, ranking, and self-learning modules that execute the respective operations in real-time or offline. The USSD CENTER ( 14 ) further includes a WEB-type environment module for creating multilingual services, for test and for development of services and for managing the versions of the said services either locally or remotely. A method is implemented using the system ( 14 ), thus enabling a user to access USSD services via existing or new non-USSD services and enabling a user to access existing or new non-USSD services via USSD services.

Applicant claims priority of Application PCT/FR2009/001045 filed Aug.28, 2009, which claimed priority from French Application No. 0804815filed Mar. 2, 2008, and from which Applicant also claims priority.

The present invention relates to a generic USSD CENTER for networkapplications and services.

The present invention is positioned in the area of conversationalapplications and client-server applications, more particularly in thefield of dynamic dialogues between a terminal and a server forapplications and services, using interactive interfaces, giving theability to reach, dialogue, exchange information and use differentapplications and services.

The present invention is positioned in particular in the area of mobiletelephony, in a context of expansion of new features, addition ofinteractive services, convergence of dialogue and communication meansbetween heterogeneous devices, such as mobile phones, mobile devices,digital applications and services platforms, Internet servers, thirdparties services and devices, and others.

In the era of new emerging technologies, there is an increasing need toconceive systems for applications and services, in particular genericservers based on simple for implementation and use protocols, withability for interactive, intuitive, easy to use navigation, and fastintegration.

To these characteristics are added the “scalability” requirements(relative to the English word “scalability”, which indicates theproperty of re-dimensioning a system or a method respectively in term ofcomponents or steps, of quality, size, resolution, band-width or other).

However, the cost constraint in material and human resources to set upsuch systems is important. The technical problem to be solved is thus toconceive with the lower possible cost a system for application andservices, allowing to set up multiple and reusable applications andservices, targeting the mass market. The problem is also to fulfill theincreasing need for compatible interactive services enabled on existingand emerging technologies, without expensive integration, andpreferably, with little or without modifications of network and userequipments.

To answer these problems, prior art knows various approaches, whichhowever address only restricted and specific aspects of these problems,making possible concrete applications, however without proposingcomplete services such as navigation in various menus, providing fromvarious applications, use of already available means in the devices, asstandard implemented functionalities in native way, and also withoutimportant modifications of the digital servers or the end usersequipments.

A known document of the prior art is the document FR2857816, whichrelates to a method for implementation of a voice communication, WAP(“Wireless Protocol Application”) or MMS (“Multi-media Message Service”)on a mobile phone. In the communication method, a preliminary stepconsists in offering the user with the possibility to activate or notsuch a communication. The choice to activate or not such a communicationis proposed to the user by an USSD connection (“UnstructuredSupplementary Service Data”).

Nevertheless, this document is limited to the establishment of aconnection for activation of a telephone voice communication via USSD,without however approaching aspects of architecture or implementation ofnavigation and auxiliary services.

Another well-known document of the prior art is the document EP0986275,which relates to a transaction method for ordering consumer items orservices with a mobile phone. In this case an order for delivery istransferred to a service provider using the mobile network. Some orderdata, including billing, is encapsulated in one or more shortcommunication messages such as SMS (“Shorts Message Service”, shorttextual message being able to be emitted and received by a cellularphone), USSD or e-mail. The data is transmitted to a validationplatform, connected to an enterprise center for short termcommunications. The cost of the indicated services is charged to theuser account and it is transferred towards the service provider account.

However, this document relates foremost to the aspects of a specifictransaction, based on existing protocols, but without addressing theproblems of interactive USSD navigation systems or architecture for USSDgeneric equipment.

Another prior art reference is the document FR2819675, relative to acell phone that includes a browser for a computer network such asInternet, means for capturing computer addresses received by thebrowser, to control storage means and recall of computer addressesprovided in the phone. The phone also includes means for generating andpresenting electronic icons, means for selecting these icons, means forstoring icons and means for matching icons and computer addresses storedin the computer memory and means to recall them.

However, this document relates to a browser implemented in the userdevice and does not address aspects related to interpreters and browsersimplemented on the network.

A document also known by the prior art, is the document WO/2007/030413concerning a control channel for a VXML browser (“Voice eXtensibleMarkup Language”, language voice extended tagging, which means anapplication programming interface for communication using peripheraldevices related to the speech synthesis and telephony). This documentfocuses on a system that allows external applications to interact with aVXML browser running on a processor based on VXML interpreter. A controlis functionally positioned between the external application and the VXMLinterpreter using a communication channel. The control inserts into theVXML interpreter instructions which are processed by the VXML browser ina conventional manner, to allow the external application to interactwith the VXML browser.

However, this document is limited to the interpretation and to the VXMLbrowser capabilities and their adaptation to a transport channel withstandard protocols such as UDP (“User Datagram Protocol”, communicationprotocol providing for the exchange of a minimum of data across anetwork), TCP (“Transmission Control Protocol”, basic protocol forexchanging data over a network), or SIP (“Session Initiation Protocol”,standard protocol for initiation of an interactive network session).Therefore, this document does not resolve the technical problem outlinedin the present invention, namely, the navigation in non-voice servicessuch as USSD or other, and any issues related to the specificity of theimplementation and the integration of such a navigation.

The present invention relies on existing standards and protocols, openand already implemented on devices, thus already available. It is basedon native functionality of networks and of terminals by providing ageneric multi-applications and multi-services architecture. In addition,the implementation and the integration centralized on networks side,allow an optimal management of network resources and implementationefforts.

The present invention aims to overcome the prior art lack and to solvesthe stated technical problem by using an unique method and a genericsystem for multiple applications and services. The implementation ofthis method is based on the use and the adaptation of network protocolssuch as USSD with interpreters related to structured languagesdescriptors.

The present invention relates to a system for network applications andservices based on standard network protocols such as USSD, containing atleast one server for applications and services, including a dynamicinteractive browser based on a language interpreter structured byconversational objects, such as VXML. The system for applications andservices based on USSD protocols is centralized in a telecommunicationsor computer network. The browser based on a VXML interpreter, isintegrated on the network.

In its broadest meaning, the present invention relates to a digitaltelecommunications system for the access, navigation and use of digitalapplications and services, called USSD CENTER, which includes at leastone server for applications and services module, at least one accessgateway module, at least one network gateway module, at least oneintegration gateway module and at least one database and profilingmodule, said server for applications and services module, calledBrowser, being based on at least one USSD telecommunication protocol andon at least one module interpreter of languages structured by objects,relative to descriptors structured by objects.

Preferably:

-   -   said interpreter of languages is such as VXML;    -   the access gateway module is based on at least one USSD        protocol.

In one embodiment, the system is connected to at least one module suchas SMSC.

In another embodiment, the system is connected to at least one modulesuch as WAP gateway and/or OTA and/or IVR and/or GPRS for anytelecommunications network.

Advantageously, the system is connected to at least one module such asSMS applications.

Preferably:

-   -   The system is connected to at least one network such as core        network for mobile telecommunications network;    -   The core network is connected to at least one users network.

Advantageously, the system is connected to at least one set of networkbased on communications protocols and interfaces.

In one embodiment, the system is connected to at least one servicesmodule of telecommunication operators or of third parties and/or to atleast one module for mobile value-added services.

In another embodiment, the system is connected to at least one module ofsystems said intelligent networks and for business support.

Advantageously, at least one server module for applications and servicesor at least one access gateway module or at least one network gatewaymodule or at least one integration gateway module or at least onedatabase and profiling module is self-sufficient.

Preferably, the server for applications and services includes at leastone VXML interpreter, at least one USSD services module and at least oneVXML files module.

In one embodiment, the USSD services module includes USSD services,unstructured or structured in menus, said USSD services beinginteractive or non-interactive.

In another embodiment, said services are multilingual for the wholeend-to-end chain.

In a preferred embodiment example, the service logic is independent ofservices language for the whole end-to-end chain.

Preferably, said USSD CENTER includes at least one charging moduleand/or at least one billing module, and/or at least one observation andranking module.

In a first preferred implementation, the USSD CENTER is a networkbrowsing system.

In a second preferred implementation, the USSD CENTER is as system forhosting of third parties applications and services.

In a third preferred implementation, the USSD CENTER is a proxy system.

In a fourth preferred implementation, the USSD CENTER is a routersystem.

In a fifth preferred implementation, USSD CENTER is a Broadcastdistribution system.

Preferably, an administration module includes a WEB-like systemadministration environment for creation, testing, deployment of servicesand version management of these services, a control module of the USSDCENTER and configuration modules for features, parameters and networkgateways.

The present invention relates also to a method that is performed in astep of codes allocation for the USSD services or generic, a step ofservice logics creation, a step of testing, evaluation and versioning ofthe services, and a step of services activation, deployment, use andback-up.

In one implementation, this method involves an additional step of ratingin real-time or offline.

In another implementation, the method also includes an additional stepof billing in real-time or offline.

Advantageously, the method includes a step of convergent unification ofpayment modes for all types of users (postpaid mode, prepaid mode, thirdparty mode) of at least one telecommunications network.

Preferably, the method includes a further step of observation andranking in real-time or offline.

In one embodiment, the method includes an additional step ofdistribution of data and services such as Broadcast.

Preferably, the Broadcast distribution step is followed by a step ofinteractive or not interactive exchange with the user.

In one embodiment example, the method includes an additional step ofsubscription and/or unsubscribe to at least one third party application.

In another embodiment example, the method performs the differentiationof the users, the users being subscribers and/or third partyapplications or services, in real-time using a dynamic customization.

In a preferred embodiment, users being subscribers and/or third partyapplications or services manage themselves their own environment forcreation of services, applications and contents.

Advantageously, the environment for creation of services is accessiblelocally or remotely from a terminal by the operators and/or the thirdparties and/or the subscribers themselves.

In a first embodiment, the method defines at least one profile of atleast one user and/or of at least one service.

In a second embodiment, the method performs a detection of the userbehavior and generates features for assistance and/or self-study.

In a first particular implementation, the user accesses the USSDservices via existing or new non-USSD services.

In a second particular implementation, the user accesses the existing ornew non-USSD services via existing or new USSD services.

In a third particular implementation, the user accesses the existing ornew USSD services via existing or new USSD services.

In a fourth particular implementation, the user accesses the existing ornew non-USSD services via existing or new non-USSD services.

Advantageously, several existing USSD access codes are grouped into asingle USSD access code.

In one embodiment, the method includes a step of static and/or dynamicmodifications of the switched parameters.

In another embodiment, the method comprises a step of load sharing.

Preferably, the USSD browsing performs the supply, the consultation andthe modification of at least one information managed in the corenetwork.

The present invention will be better understood with the help of thefigures referring to the annexed drawings, which respectively show:

in FIG. 1, a general diagram of the architecture of the generic system,discussed in the present invention;

in FIG. 2, one particular embodiment of the USSD CENTER (14) and of themodule (16) with its internal connections;

in FIG. 3, one particular embodiment of the USSD CENTER (14) withexternal connections of the module (16).

The general scheme of the present invention is illustrated in FIG. 1. Aplatform for applications and services (14), called in the presentinvention “CENTER for applications and services” or also “CENTER” isdesigned to perform and to bill services, for example such as messaging(USSD or SMS “Short Message Service”, or other), such as “Browsing”,i.e. navigation, such as “Hosting” and such as “Broadcast”, i.e.distribution of data from a single source to a set of receivers.

The CENTER (14) is a generic open system, multi-applications andmulti-services, which provides services compatible with standardprotocols used in mobile phones, such as for example the protocols SS7(“Signaling System 7”, telecommunications protocol for high bits rateconnections in circuit mode) and/or IP protocols (“Internet Protocol”).

In the present invention, under the term “USSD generic system” isunderstood a system based on standard protocols, existing or new,enabling the implementation by using USSD, of any service and anyexisting or new application. Said center (14) is located within a serverin a network such as mobile telecommunications network, SS7 network,3G/3G+network, NGN network (“Next Generation Networks”, the generic nameof any future telecommunications network), Internet computer network orany other digital network. This CENTER (14) consists of five mainmodules: a server for application and services (16) with a browser,called herein

Browser

, said Browser being based on at least one USSD protocol, an USSD accessgateway (17), a networks gateway (18) based on protocols compatible withtelecommunications networks, an integration gateway (15), dedicated toinformation technology systems information and a data and profilingdatabase (19).

In a general case, said CENTER (14) consists of at least one server forapplication and services (16), of at least one access gateway (17), ofat least one networks gateway (18), of at least one integration gateway(15), and of at least one data and profiling database (19).

In a first particular case, said CENTER consists of a subset of themodules (16), (17), (18), (15) or (19).

In a second particular case, at least one module (16) or at least onemodule (17) or at least one module (18) or at least one module (15) orat least one module (19) is self-sufficient.

In the present invention is understood that a networks gateway is aplatform or a set of intermediate platforms which processes andtransmits information packets on a network or on multiple networks tothe specified destination, and allows heterogeneous networks tocommunicate. Under the term “gateway” is understood therefore a networksgateway to any network, including at least one network interface.

The integration gateway (15) communicates with the server forapplications and services (16), said Browser, via the link (124) andusing at least one interfacing protocol, for example an IP standardprotocol.

Under standard IP protocol is understood the set of IP protocols used inthe networks. The Browser (16) communicates with the USSD access gateway(17) via the link (125) and using protocols for example such as IP, orSMS applications protocol, such as SMPP (“Short Message Peer to Peer”).The Browser (16) communicates also with the network gateway (18) via thelink (129), using standard IP protocols for example. The Browser (16)exchanges data with the data and profiling database (19) via the link(191) using protocols such as IP. Said data and profiling database (19)contains information, for example on white lists and black listsregarding various users, on users profiles, on the services profiles andon the various usage statistics, used in the analysis and the servicemanagement. The module (19) also includes modules for static or dynamicdefinition of at least one user profile and of at least one serviceprofile. Subsequently, said CENTER (14) such implemented is called USSDCENTER (14).

The USSD CENTER (14) is connected through the USSD gateway (17) to anetwork such as “Core Network” (130) (“Core Network”, basic centralnetwork or core of the telecommunications network). The Core Network isfor example such as core network for GSM (“Global System for Mobiletelecommunications”), GPRS (“General Packet Radio Services”,communications system with access using packets services), UMTS(“Universal Mobile Telecommunications System”), 3G/3G+ and/or any othercore network such as for NGN. For instance, the network (130) is such asSS7 and communicates with the USSD CENTER (14) via the link (122)through which the communications are exchanged for example using the MAPprotocol (“Mobile Application Protocol”, protocol for mobileapplications).

In another implementation, the USSD CENTER (14) is connected to thenetwork (130) through the network gateway (18), via a link (133) andusing one or more protocols such as SS7. For example, said link (133)consists of a CAP protocol (“CAMEL Application Part”, application partprotocol of CAMEL protocol “Customized Applications for Mobile networkEnhanced Logic”, allows a telecommunications operator to provide, insideor outside of its own network, special services to its users, such asreal-time billing), of a INAP protocol (“Intelligent Network ApplicationProtocol”, application part for intelligent applications on SS7protocol) or of a MAP protocol.

Said core network (130) includes different modules with which thenetwork gateway (18) and/or the USSD gateway (17) exchange data. Forexample, these modules are such as HLR module (“Home LocationRegister”), MSC module (“Mobile Switch Center”, center for mobilecommunications), VMSC module (“Visited Mobile Switching Center”, visitedcenter of mobile services), GMSC module (“Gateway Mobile ServicesSwitching Center”, switched mobile services gateway), SIGTRAN module(set of protocols defined for transporting SS7 messages over IP) or anyother module related to mobile telephony.

Said core network (130) exchanges information via the link (145), withthe set (113) of the users (114), (115), and/or (116). The set of users(113) is for instance such as network RAN (“Radio Access Network”, theradio access network for mobile phones) for GSM, EDGE, UMTS, 3G/3G+ orfor example such as PSTN (“Public Switched Telephone Network”), NGN, orany other digital network of a set of users. The communication link(145) is set up using standard protocols.

The user equipment, said terminal, is for example a mobile phone (saidalso cell phone), a PDA (“Personal Digital Assistant”, handheldcomputer, combining many functions), a multi-functions board computer orfor vehicle, a home or business multi-platform, including for example amonitoring or safety function, or any other fixed or mobile device beingable to communicate with at least one network.

In the present invention, under the term “user” is understood anindividual subscriber, fixed, nomadic or “Roamer” (“roamer”, itinerantsubscriber in the sense of “roaming” between networks) to at least onenetwork, or a third party, for example a provider of applications, ofservices, of contents or of any equipment, for example alarm orsignaling equipment.

The network gateway (18) is also connected to a services platform (112)via the link (126) and using protocols such as IP. The services platform(112) is for example WAP gateway, OTA (“Over The Air”, standard protocolfor transmitting and receiving information relating to an applicationfor mobile phones), IVR (“Interactive Voice Response”) or GPRS (forinstance MMSC “Multi Media Messaging Service Center”, multimedia servicecenter). This platform (112) is also connected to the telecommunicationsnetwork (130) via the link (147) and using standard or specificprotocols, for example such as SS7 or IP. The gateway (18) is alsoconnected to a module (119) which is such as SMSC (SMS Center), via thelink (134) and using protocols such as SMPP. The SMSC module (119) isitself connected to the telecommunications network (130), via a link(135), using communications protocol such as SS7.

Preferably, the Browser (16) is also connected to the SMSC module (119)via the link (137) and using protocols such as SMPP. In this case, theUSSD services are also offered as SMS services. Also, The USSD servicesare offered as services WAP, IVR, OTA, GPRS or 3G/3G+.

A third module (10) for processing of SMS applications, treats the SMSqueries and communicates in a conventional manner with the SMSC module(119) via the link (102) and protocols such as SMPP.

In a particular implementation of the USSD CENTER (14), the applicationSMS queries of the module (10) are transmitted via the links (101) and(105) with protocols such as SMPP and are processed directly by the USSDaccess gateway (17), allowing these external SMS services to beavailable in USSD.

Also, other existing non-USSD services such as IVR, OTA, WAP, GPRS or3G/3G+ are available via USSD. In general, using this architecture, theuser accesses the USSD services via non-USSD services, existing or new,and also the user accesses the non-USSD services, existing or new, viaUSSD.

The USSD CENTER (14) is connected via a link (123) which is for examplesuch as IP, to a set (13) of IP networks which includes variousprotocols, linked to platforms for applications and services (10), (11),(12) and (110). Through this set of networks (13), the USSD CENTER (14)has access to platforms (12), for example such as VAS (“mobileValue-Added Services”). Data between this set of networks (13) and theplatform (12) are exchanged via the link (121) using standard protocols,such as for example VXML/HTTP (“HyperText Transfer Protocol” texttransfer protocol), SOAP/HTTP (“Simple Object Access Protocol”, standardprotocol for the WWW services (“World Wide Web” or “WEB”, globalnetwork), XML/HTTP (“XML”, “extended Markup Language”, extended markuplanguage for describing and analyzing data), SMPP, or using proprietaryprotocols such as for example

ORACLE

® (server for interface and applications for mobile chain),

MySQL

® (relational database), LDAP (“Lightweight Directory Access Protocol”,simplified protocol for accessing databases), DIAMETER (IP extension formobile), RADIUS (IP extension for mobile), MML (“Man-Machine Language”)or other kinds of protocols.

According to one implementation through the network (13), the USSDCENTER (14) has access to a platform (11), such as for example ASP(“Applications Service Providers”, providers for applications andservices), or such as MVNO (“Mobile Virtual Network Operator”), or otherthird parties such as for instance banks, with which through the network(13), the USSD CENTER (14) exchanges information via a link such as(121).

In a particular embodiment, a portion of the set of networks (13) isconnected with one or many platforms of the network (130) via forexample an IP link (144), such as MML or TELNET (“TELecommunicationNETwork”, network protocol to remotely execute controls). This is aneffective and practical way for the USSD CENTER, to propose via browsingthe supply, the consultation and the modification of the informationmanaged in the core network (130) and by default inaccessible for theusers.

In one embodiment example, the network (130) has access to the serviceplatform (110) such as for instance BSS (“Business Support Systems”) viathe link (143) using protocols such as INAP, MAP, CAP and CDR (“CallData Records”, recording of the call data). The BSS module (110) is forexample such as post-paid billing module or a prepaid billing module,such as IN (“Intelligent Network”, concept defining advanced functionsdriving the equipments of the phone network).

The platform (110) is also connected via the link (131) using specificor proprietary protocols, to a gateway (132), which is for example suchas USSD dedicated to modules such as BSS. The gateway (132) communicateswith the network (130) via a link (141) using the USSD MAP protocol andwith the USSD gateway (17) via a link (127) using the USSD MAP protocol.The link (127) is in this case merged with any link such as (141). Thisparticular connection makes it possible to configure the architecture ofFIG. 1 for new services.

In a particular embodiment, the platform (110) exchanges informationwith the network (13) via the link (128), using standard or proprietaryprotocols, specific to the platform (110), such as for example

Ericsson

® UCIP (“User Communication Integration Protocol”,

Ericsson

® specific protocol),

Huawei

® MML, the applications protocol “Corba” for NSN ((

Nokia Siemens Network

®) BSS, Corba for

Alcatel

® BSS, or Corba for

LHS

® BSS. In another embodiment, the platform (110) is directly connectedto the network gateway (18) via the link (139), using standard orspecific protocols.

The generic architecture described in this no limiting example,comprising the modules and the links illustrated in FIG. 1, presents adynamic and interactive system for the access and the use of multipleapplications and services by users of at least one telecommunicationsnetwork (113). Using this architecture, new services are offered tousers through classical interfaces, such as USSD, SMS, IVR, WAP, GPRS or3G/3G+. In addition, an USSD access is opened to the users for existingclassical services, such as SMS, IVR, WAP, GPRS or 3G/3G+.

Also, classical and difficult to use network features such as callforwarding, Roaming functions (“roaming”, inter-network roaming), shortnumbers, callbacks and others are made convenient and easy to use thanksto the USSD CENTER (14). In addition, real-time services are offered,such as for example the differentiation of a user in roaming mode, andfor example, an appropriate dynamic customization and profiling.

Advantageously, are added supplementary modules such as (10) (11), (12)or (110), of telecommunication operators or of third parties. In thisway, the architecture shown in FIG. 1, including the module (14), thenetwork (13) and the modules (11), (12) and (110), has properties ofscalability adapted to the capacity of processed information in terms ofdata, applications, services, networks or others.

The USSD CENTER (14) manages applications and services in function ofthe network resources and plans routing of each task in function of theavailable bandwidths or queries, requesting additional allocation ofresources.

In a particular embodiment, telecommunication operators have access tothis architecture in order to do operational and load testing ofexternal systems. The USSD CENTER (14) therefore offers possibility forconnections and testing of additional modules. Preferably, allconnections of the USSD CENTER (14) to external systems are based onpre-requisites for security of these systems. The exchanges areunsecured or secured using for example an encryption, such as forexample SSL (“Secure Socket Layer”, a protocol that encrypts data sentby a browser, or other).

The present invention is detailed below with preferred and not limitingembodiment examples. In a preferred implementation, the Browser (16) isdesigned based on USSD protocol and on a structured VXML languageinterpreter.

An example of a preferred embodiment of the module Browser (16) is shownin FIG. 2.

Said browser (16) includes at least one interpreter of languagestructured by object (21). In this preferred example of implementationthe interpreter (21) is such as VXML. The VXML interpreter (21)exchanges information with a module (23) containing lists of services oralso USSD menus, via the link (242) and using protocols such as VXML.USSD menus are unstructured or structured. At least one given service isdescribed using call of VXML files (24) via the link (246) and usingVXML protocol, in order to identify the context and the properties ofthe communication with each user of mobile phones. In this case, theBrowser (16) is based on VXML.

In this way the navigation is done through menus such as USSD. All USSDservices of the module (23) are deployed in the browser as VXML files(for example VoiceXML v2), and downloaded into the memory of the VXMLinterpreter (21). Preferably, the VXML interpreter (21) is designed totake into account the specifications of the USSD protocol communication.The VXML interpreter (21) uses internal virtual memories (or “caches”)for already interpreted queries, and thus they are interpreted for thesame USSD sequence without navigation, i.e. without a new interpretationof the already explored service tree structure.

In a first preferred embodiment, said Browser (16) is configured as abrowser. The browsing logic is similar to that of a WEB browser.Configuration interfaces indicate lists and sub-lists of all principalexisting services and applications, these lists and sub-lists arerespectively called pages and sub-pages or menus and submenus.

For example, USSD service codes are generated and assigned to menus. Inone embodiment, the USSD service codes are assigned to all menus. Inanother embodiment, the service codes are assigned to some of the menus.

Preferably, the menus (23) represent at least one USSD page, these USSDpages being linked to a browsing logic. The menus are enabled ordisabled, for example by an internal administrator (210) and their stateis indicated in the USSD CENTER (14) with configuration messages storedin the data and profiling database (19).

The browsing method, including the generation, the allocation and themanagement of menus, is defined by several steps:

-   -   Allocation of the USSD service codes; In cases where existing        USSD service codes are not assigned in advance, temporary USSD        codes are generated by the internal administrator (210).    -   Creation of service logic, including a definition of nodes and        sub nodes, programming of marker variables, definition of remote        URLs (“Uniform Resource Locator”);

Testing, evaluation and versioning of the services;

Activation, deployment and use of the services.

The Browser (16) allows thus to perform browsing from a main menu tosub-menus with direct access through an USSD string, creating a“shortcut”. The shortcut includes sequence of user response from theUSSD screen to modify.

For example, a simple USSD sequence is such as:

#123*1*2#

The Browser (16) interprets each parameter of the USSD string from theuser in a sequential way and will then display the appropriate menu. Inthe case where the menu is a last node, the Browser (16) will send aquery such as HTTP to a service provider, which will as feedback,provide for example the desired content.

Using the Browser (16), dynamic operations are set up and performed,such as navigation with feedback, navigation from a main menu,navigation from an intermediate menu, browsing interruption.Advantageously, these operations are accompanied by analysiscapabilities, configuration and store in the user profile. Under theterm “user profile” is understood the set of characteristics related toat least one connection and to at least one session, for example: IPaddress, phone number, location, time and date of the connection,duration of the connection, language of the browsing, geographicallocation, types of required applications and services, requiredcontents, and any other characteristic related to this connection.

Preferably, the USSD CENTER (14) contains a multilingual menuconfiguration for the whole end to end chain (between the finalsubscribers and the service providers for example). Also, the serviceslogic is independent of the languages for the whole end to end chain.

The Browser (16), as designed, has network architecture and connections,which are multiple, dynamic and interactive. The Browser (16) includesinternal connectors, for example communication interfaces with thegateways (15), (17) and (18), and these internal connectors may includeat least one sub-connector. By using the connector (22), the Browser(16) communicates with the integration gateway (15) via a link (124).The Browser (16) is also connected to the USSD access gateway (17) viathe USSD connector (25) and a link (125). Also, the Browser (16)communicates with the network gateway (18) via the connector (26) and alink (129).

In a particular embodiment, the network gateway (18) is connected to theplatform (112) via a link such as (126), specifically with modules suchas IVR (282), WAP (283) and WEB (284). In this way, services such asIVR, WEB or WAP are proposed via USSD protocols. In general, any digitalservice, and any new or existing application for network systems can beset up by USSD protocols.

In another particular embodiment, the network gateway (18) is connectedwith the services platform SMSC (119) via the link (134). Theintegration gateway (15) exchanges data with the BSS platform (110) viathe link (222) which is a composition of link (123), network (13) andlink (128). Also the networks gateway (18) exchanges data with the saidBSS platform (110) via the link (139). In a first implementationexample, the module (110) is connected only to the module (15). In asecond implementation example, the module (110) is connected only to themodule (18). In a third implementation example, the module (110) isconnected to the module (15) and to the module (18).

The data and profiling database (19), comprises a module for defining ofat least one user profile and at least one service profile, andexchanges separately information with the module (15) via the link(292), with the module (16) via the link (191), with the module (17) viathe link (293) and with the module (18) via the link (294). In thismanner, configuration information, various administration data,statistics and information about users and services profiles arecompleted, used and inter-exchanged between the modules (15), (16), (17)and (18).

In a particular embodiment example, the data and profiling database (19)is connected only with the Browser (16) via the link (191), in whichcase the links (292), (293) and (294) are omitted. Preferably, the dataand profiling database (19) contains information on the characteristicsof sessions, static and dynamic statistics.

In a second preferred embodiment, the Browser (16) is configured such as“Hosting” platform, or hosting of applications and of external or thirdparties services. Third parties access is enabled in a secure way forcreation and activation of applications and services. These thirdparties then operate only the codes of the services they offer.

The embodiment such as hosting in the present invention, allowstelecommunication operators to set up USSD services, operated by thirdparties such as service providers. The third parties access iscompletely secured. Telecom operators create one or many accounts foreach third party by attributing at least one access code and USSDresources. Each service provider uses the same user interface as thetelecom operator and operates remotely its own USSD application, in theoperating limits assigned by the telecommunications operator. For eachservices provider is recorded history of activities and of operations.Furthermore, the environment for creating services and applications isprovided not only to services providers, but also to various users andsubscribers, who in this way adapt and customize their own applications,services and contents. In a third preferred embodiment, the USSD CENTER(14) is configured as an USSD “proxy” (module of an USSD systemconnected to another USSD system and performing queries (and theirbackup) for the services needs). This embodiment, concerning for examplethe module (110), is achieved via the specific gateway (132). Theclassic link (141), connecting the gateway (132) to the network (130),is then merged by the module (110) with the link (127) connecting thegateway (132) to the USSD gateway (17). The applications and services ofmodule (110) are then appropriated by the USSD CENTER (14).

In this way, it becomes possible for the operator to group several USSDaccess codes in a single access code and also to introduce new services(USSD or not), which are not feasible without modifications of existingnetwork elements. In a fourth preferred embodiment, the USSD CENTER (14)is configured as active routing platform, which provides USSD-likemediation between different network elements and solves problems relatedto routing of users, of services and of applications. These problems arefor example the routing of the user towards a BSS platform (110), therouting such as MNP (“Mobile Number Portability”) and others.

When the USSD CENTER (14) performs proxy and router functions, it hasthe ability to make static and/or dynamic changes on commutedparameters.

When the USSD CENTER (14) performs proxy and router functions, it hasthe ability to perform load sharing functions.

In a fifth preferred embodiment, the USSD CENTER (14) is configured toperform distribution, such as Broadcast, of data and services tomultiple users, for example broadcast advertising, event alerts or otheruseful information. In one implementation, the Broadcast is followed bya user response and interactive exchange, for example for applicationssuch as consumer enquiries and surveys.

Moreover, a Broadcast service creation environment allows to servicesproviders and end users to adapt and customize their own Broadcastdistributions.

Advantageously, the Broadcast environment of the USSD CENTER (14),enables the operators to launch also conventional broadcast services,such as SMS, IVR, WAP, GARS or 3G/3G+.

In an embodiment example of the USSD CENTER (14), the Browser (16)communicates via the link (278) with a billing module (27). In this waythe contents requested by the same user are generally subject to acontrol and to a billing in real-time or offline.

In another embodiment example of said USSD CENTER (14), the Browser (16)communicates via the link (288) with a charging module (28).

Both embodiments are applied to any kinds of users: with subscription,prepaid mode, roaming, fixed or nomadic.

The USSD CENTER (14) manages for example the billing with subscriptionor in prepaid mode, by using an approach called external paymentprocedure. A specific procedure for external billing is specified in theUSSD services logic during the creation of the service and is triggeredin real-time during the user session. The payment procedures are inaccordance with the specific payment requirements of the operator or thethird party.

During the session, a mobile user in roaming is also identified, so thathis navigation is taken into account in an appropriate way during thepayment procedure. Advantageously, this case is available through theuse of the USSD CENTER (14) functionalities.

In general, the USSD CENTER (14) includes a payment system that makesthe charging and/or the billing in real-time or offline, and thereforeallows the convergence of the different services and modes of payment(prepaid, with subscription and mixed).

In a particular embodiment example, users subscribe to any service usingthe USSD CENTER (14). Preferably, the USSD CENTER (14) includes afeature to change or to automatic cancel the subscription, eitherfollowing the request of the user or following the request of theservices provider.

In one particular implementation of said USSD CENTER (14), the Browser(16) communicates via the link (298) with a module (29), for which amethod of observation and ranking is defined. Preferably, the method ofobservation and ranking makes in real-time or offline observation,analysis and ranking of user behavior, content, services, providers andother users. This method is used for example for the analysis andranking of services and their subparts, and also for revenue generation.The observation and ranking parameters are defined during or after theprocess of service creation.

During the session, network management administration (210), integratedin the USSD CENTER (14), generates in real-time the required parametersand automatically creates an observation and/or ranking events.

In one embodiment example, the billing module (27), the charging module(28) and the observation and ranking module (29) are integrated withinthe Browser module (16). The internal management administration (210) ofthe USSD CENTER (14) is connected with the Browser (16) and thereforewith the VXML interpreter (21) via a link (211). The module (210) isable to support at the same time all the deployed services, includinggeneric USSD operations initiated by the telecommunications network andthe mobile terminal, as well as sessions or dialogue of a bilateral USSDsession. The observation and the ranking are applicable to serviceproviders, and to users. The observation is based on defined parameters,such as for example: the type of the event, the date and time of theevent, the duration of the session, the number of exchanges during thesession, the application code of the service (end-user or any network),the VAS provider, the message content (based on keywords or contentcodes), the location of the end user. Also, a combination of observationfactors is correlated with event phenomena, such as for exampleholidays, sports championships, advertising campaigns.

In its most general definition, the administration module (210) includesa system administration such a WEB, including a WEB environment forcreation of services, testing, deployment and version control of theseservices, a management module of the system USSD CENTER (14) and modulesfor features, parameters and network gateways configuration. Theenvironment for services creation is accessible locally, remotely orfrom a terminal by the operator and/or by third parties and/or by usersthemselves. The administration system controls connections, datacollection, analysis, and statistics. The system administration module(210) is connected with at least one other internal module of the USSDCENTER (14), other than the Browser (16). The system administration isfor example connected with the integration gateway (15) via link (212),with the USSD gateway (17) via link (214), with the network gateway (18)via link (215) and with the data and profiling database (19) via link(213).

Thanks to the data and profiling database (19), the USSD CENTER (14) hasthe ability to determine in real-time the profile of a user or of agroup of users. The user profile is completed by its usage profilerelative to at least one service and to a set of parameters specific tothe sessions for this service. By using the data and profiling database(19), the USSD CENTER (14) has the ability to determine in real-time theprofile of a service or a set of services. This profile consists ofinformation such as for example the lack of accessibility to freeservices or to a particular group of users, the definition of white andblack lists, and others.

In function of the detected user behavior, the USSD CENTER (14) has theability to trigger an event for assistance, by setting up aself-learning. Thus, the USSD CENTER (14) delivers in real-timeassistance adapted to the user when such is necessary. In oneembodiment, the USSD CENTER offers management of services and ofcontents performed directly by users. For example, the services and thecontents are created or customized by the user himself using a WEB siteor directly using the mobile terminal.

Preferably, the USSD system for browsing and for hosting generates CDRfiles. Once created, for instance, the files for billing are availablefor the telecommunications operator or for the services providers. Thefrequency of updating of these files is, for example, at least once perminute. Their format is, for example such as “ASN.1 Structured”(“Abstract Syntax Notation One Structured”, standard way for describinga message sent or received by the network).

In one particular implementation, the CDR files syntax is adapted by thetelecom operator and some parameters are modified. The various CDRformats are generated using presets parameters. For each node in thetree of the service logic, the choice of CDR formats and their uses byan administrator are flexible. Said administrator is in this case anoperator, a services provider or any third party to whom theadministration of the services has been delegated. FIG. 3 illustrates anon-limiting embodiment example of the architecture referenced in FIG. 1and FIG. 2 with external connectors to the Browser module (16). TheBrowser module (16) is represented in architecture with the integrationgateway module (15), which includes at least one integration interfacemodule. Preferably, the interface modules are based on protocols such asHTTP (321), SOAP (322), XML/HTTP (323), CORBA (324),

ORACLE

® (325),

MySQL

® (326), LDAP (327), SMPP (328), CIMD2 (329) (“Computer Interface toMessage Distribution, version 2”, distributing messages interface),Diameter (3210), or any integration gateway (3211). In the integrationgateway module (15), integration interfaces are such as client, server,client-server or “Peer to Peer”, point to point communication. Also, themodule (15) is connected via a link such as (123) and using IP protocolwith a module (31) comprising a set of services, for example VASservices. The module (31) includes, for example, the module (11) whichcontains a MVNOs module (312) and an ASP module (311), and includes themodule (12) which consists of a VAS module (313) and of a SMSC module(314). The module (15) communicates with the modules (11) and (12) via alink such as (123), followed by a link as (121).

The module (31) also includes a service platform such as BSS or IN(110), with which the module (15) communicates via a link such as (128).Also, the module (31) includes an SMS applications platform (10), withwhich the module (15) communicates via a link (123), followed by a link(101). In order to access multiple computer and telecommunicationsnetworks, the Browser module (16) is connected to the network gatewaymodule (18) via a link such as (129). The module (18) contains at leastone network gateway such as SOAP (331), HTTP (332), SMPP (333), CAMEL(335), MAP (336) or any network gateway (337). In the network gatewaymodule (18), the network interfaces are such as client, server,client-server or “Peer to Peer”, point to point communication.

The module (18) has access to networks, for instance via a link (35)which is for example such as (133) and/or such as (126) and/or such as(134), and/or via a link (37) which is for example such as (127) and/orsuch as (122).

FIG. 3 of the present invention illustrates the unique and not limitingarchitecture of the generic USSD CENTER (14) presentingmulti-application and multi-service characteristics, compatibility andinteroperability with existing systems, scalability in terms of networkperformance and network connections and, therefore, in terms ofapplications and services.

The USSD CENTER (14) is an open platform adapted to existing standards,with multi-service and multi-operator capabilities. The USSD CENTER (14)enables deployment of new services, providing opportunities for multiplemobile applications. The user interaction with mobile applications iseasy and instantaneous, the response time is guaranteed and theinteractions during the session are supported, unlike of the servicessuch as SMS and GPRS. The USSD protocol is fully supported by the GSMnetwork and the addition of the USSD CENTER (14) in a telecommunicationnetwork does not require network modification. The USSD CENTER (14)supports user (115) initiated sessions such as “pull” (“pull”,withdrawal) and network initiated sessions initiated by the applicationserver (16) such as “push” (“push”, pushing), with unilateral orbilateral interactivity.

Using a simple reconfiguration, mobile applications such as SMS, STK(“SIM Tool Kit”), WAP, IVR and others, are immediately available.

The fact, that the USSD gateway (17) and the USSD Browser (16) are openplatforms, allows the integration of different network protocols andmultiple deployments with capacities of several thousand transactionsper second.

For example, the USSD CENTER (14) is used for banking services andapplications, Broadcast, advertisement, alerts, traffic simulation andvarious network services. Also, the USSD CENTER (14) is used for contentmanagement by geographical location, as well as for multitude ofemerging SPs (“Services Providers”) applications. Telecom operators haveaccess to the USSD CENTER also to test external systems functionally andunder load. Additional modules are integrated, such as supervision andsecurity modules, or any other fixed or mobile device modules being ableto communicate with at least one telecommunications network.

A particular and non-limiting embodiment of the USSD CENTER module (14)is performed using hardware platforms such as HP (

Hewlett Packard

®), FSC (

Fujitsu-Siemens Computers

®), IBM (

International Business Machines

®)) or

SUN Microsystems

®. The operating system is for example such as

Red Hat Enterprise

® or

Fedora Linux

®, or such as

Sun Solaris

®.

1. A digital telecommunications system for the access, navigation anduse of digital applications and services, wherein said system comprisesa server module for applications and services, an access gateway module,a network gateway module, an integration gateway module and a databaseand profiling module, said server module for applications and servicescomprising an unstructured supplementary service data telecommunicationprotocol and a module comprising a language interpreter structured byobjects relative to descriptors structured by objects.
 2. A systemaccording to claim 1, wherein said language interpreter comprises voiceextensible markup language.
 3. A system according to claim 1, whereinthe access gateway module is based on an unstructured supplementaryservice data telecommunication protocol and the access gateway modulecomprises means for communicating with a short message peer to peerprotocol.
 4. A system according to claim 1, further comprising aconnection of the system to a module comprising a short message servicecenter.
 5. A system according to claim 1, further comprising aconnection of the system to a module comprising a protocol chosen from agroup consisting of a wireless application protocol gateway, an over theair protocol, an interactive voice response and general packet radioservices.
 6. A system according to claim 1, further comprising aconnection of the system to a module comprising a short message serviceapplication.
 7. A system according to claim 1, further comprising aconnection of the system to a core network for mobiletelecommunications.
 8. A system according to claim 1, further comprisinga connection of the system to a core network for mobiletelecommunications, wherein the core network is connected to a usernetwork.
 9. A system according to claim 1, further comprising aconnection of the system to a set of networks based on communicationsprotocols and interfaces.
 10. A system according to claim 1, furthercomprising a connection of the system to a services module chosen from agroup consisting of telecommunication operators and third parties.
 11. Asystem according to claim 1, further comprising a connection of thesystem to a services module comprising mobile value-added services. 12.A system according to claim 1, further comprising a connection of thesystem to a module comprising an intelligent network and businesssupport.
 13. A system according to claim 1, further comprising a selfsufficient module chosen from a group consisting of: a server forapplications and services module, an access gateway module, a networkgateway module, an integration gateway module, and a database andprofiling module.
 14. A system according to claim 1, wherein the serverfor applications and services comprises a voice extensible markuplanguage interpreter, an unstructured supplementary service data module,and a voice extensible markup language files module.
 15. A systemaccording to claim 1, wherein the server for applications and servicescomprises a voice extensible markup language interpreter, anunstructured supplementary service data module, and a voice extensiblemarkup language files module, wherein the unstructured supplementaryservice data module provides interactive services.
 16. A systemaccording to claim 1, wherein the server for applications and servicescomprises a voice extensible markup language interpreter, anunstructured supplementary service data module, and a voice extensiblemarkup language files module, wherein the unstructured supplementaryservice data module provides non-interactive services.
 17. A systemaccording to claim 1, wherein the system is a network browsing system.18. A system according to claim 1, wherein the system is a hostingsystem for applications and third party services.
 19. A system accordingto claim 1, wherein the system is a router system.
 20. A systemaccording to claim 1, further comprising an administration module thatcomprises a WEB-like system administration comprising an environment forservices creation, testing, deployment and management of services, and acontrol module of the unstructured supplementary service data center andconfiguration modules for features, parameters and network gateways. 21.A method of using a digital telecommunications system for the access,navigation and use of digital applications and services according toclaim 1, wherein the method comprises the steps of: a) allocating codesof the unstructured supplementary services, b) creating a logic of theservices, c) testing, evaluation and versioning the services, and d)activating, deploying, 15 using and saving the services.
 22. A method ofusing a digital telecommunications system for the access, navigation anduse of digital applications and services according to claim 20, furthercomprising the step of observing and ranking the services in real time.23. A method of using a digital telecommunications system for theaccess, navigation and use of digital applications and servicesaccording to claim 20, further comprising the step of observing andranking the services offline.
 24. A method of using a digitaltelecommunications system for the access, navigation and use of digitalapplications and services according to claim 20, further comprising thestep of subscribing to at least one third of applications of theservices.
 25. A method of using a digital telecommunications system forthe access, navigation and use of digital applications and servicesaccording to claim 20, 25 further comprising applications and servicesaccording to claim 20, further comprising the step of unsubscribing toat least one third of applications of the services.
 26. A method ofusing a digital telecommunications system for the access, navigation anduse of digital applications and services according to claim 20, furthercomprising the step of differentiating users of the system, anddifferentiation is performed in real-time using dynamic customization.27. A method of using a digital telecommunications system for theaccess, navigation and use of digital applications and servicesaccording to claim 20, wherein users are self managed in a userenvironment, and services, applications and contents are user managed.28. A method of using a digital telecommunications system for theaccess, navigation and use of digital applications and servicesaccording to claim 20, wherein a creation environment is accessible froma group consisting of operators, third parties and subscribers.
 29. Amethod of using a digital telecommunications system for the access,navigation and use of digital applications and services according toclaim 20, further wherein the method defines a profile of a user and aservice employed by the user.
 30. A method of using a digitaltelecommunications system for the access, navigation and use of digitalapplications and services according to claim 20, further comprising thesteps of detecting of user behavior and generating features for userassistance.
 31. A method of using a digital telecommunications systemfor the access, navigation and use of digital applications and servicesaccording to claim 20, further comprising the step of a user accessingunstructured supplementary service data via non-unstructuredsupplementary service data services.
 32. A method of using a digitaltelecommunications system for the access, navigation and use of digitalapplications and services according to claim 20, further comprising thestep of a user accessing non-unstructured supplementary service data viaunstructured supplementary service data services.
 33. A method of usinga digital telecommunications system for the access, navigation and useof digital applications and services according to claim 20, furthercomprising the step of a user accessing unstructured supplementaryservice data via unstructured supplementary service data services.
 34. Amethod of using a digital telecommunications system for the access,navigation and use of digital applications and services according toclaim 20, further comprising the step of a user accessingnon-unstructured supplementary service data via non-unstructuredsupplementary service data services.
 35. A method of using a digitaltelecommunications system for the access, navigation and use of digitalapplications and services according to claim 20, further comprising thestep of modifying commuted parameters.
 36. A method of using a digitaltelecommunications system for the access, navigation and use of digitalapplications and services according to claim 20, further comprising thestep of load sharing.
 37. A method of using a digital telecommunicationssystem for the access, navigation and use of digital applications andservices according to claim 20, further comprising the steps ofconsultation and modifying information managed in the core network,wherein unstructured supplementary service data browsing performs thesupply, consultation and modification of information managed in the corenetwork